Bertha Falls
Discover the cascading beauty of Bertha Falls in Waterton Lakes National Park, offering accessible lower falls and a rewarding hike to upper falls and...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Bertha Falls
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the cascading beauty of Bertha Falls in Waterton Lakes National Park, offering accessible lower falls and a rewarding hike to upper falls and a serene lake.
"The falls are nice, but as good a treat are the pools of water that provide exploration opportunity. "
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The trail can be rocky and uneven. Sneakers are okay, but hiking boots are better for comfort and safety.
🐻 Be Bear Aware
This is bear country! Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Make noise on the trail.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lower Bertha Falls
Near Waterton Campground
Easily accessible falls offering a rewarding view without a strenuous hike. Perfect for a quick stop and photos.
Upper Bertha Falls & Bertha Lake
End of the Bertha Falls Trail
A more challenging hike leads to spectacular upper falls and a serene lake, offering breathtaking mountain scenery.
+1
Bertha Bay
Side trail from Bertha Falls Trail
A peaceful, less-crowded spot with tranquil waters, ideal for a quiet moment amidst nature.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Bertha Falls
Trail Conditions & What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The trail can be rocky and uneven. Sneakers are okay, but hiking boots are better for comfort and safety.
🐻 Be Bear Aware
This is bear country! Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Make noise on the trail.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
The hike to Upper Bertha Falls is moderate. Stay hydrated and fueled, especially on warmer days.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera! The scenery of Waterton Lake and the falls is incredibly photogenic.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The trail can be rocky and uneven. Sneakers are okay, but hiking boots are better for comfort and safety.
🐻 Be Bear Aware
This is bear country! Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Make noise on the trail.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
The hike to Upper Bertha Falls is moderate. Stay hydrated and fueled, especially on warmer days.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera! The scenery of Waterton Lake and the falls is incredibly photogenic.
👨👩👧 Family Friendly Option
Lower Bertha Falls is great for families with young children. The hike to Upper Falls might be challenging for toddlers.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Bertha Falls is a highly recommended destination in Waterton Lakes National Park, praised for its accessible lower falls and rewarding hike to the upper falls and lake. Visitors appreciate the scenic views of Waterton Lake and the opportunity for exploration, though some note the lack of shade and the trail's rocky nature. It's considered a great family-friendly option, especially for the lower falls. +1
"These falls can be accessed via a modest easy hike from near the Waterton campground. The trail provides views of Waterton lake, and highlights impact of the 2017 fire. The falls are nice, but as good a treat are the pools of water that provide exploration opportunity and a place for your feet on a hot day. Highly recommended for families."
Al-Karim Walli
"Moderate hike with great views of Waterton Lake and the town of Waterton. All the old trees have been burnt by the forest fire so there's no shade but there's lots of new baby pine trees and wildflowers along the walk."
Patplace88
"Nice hike to go with family and ok for kids. I had to carry my 3 year old a bit because she got a little tired. It was busy when we went on the long weekend and you had to move to the side often to let others pass. Someone tried to bring a stroller up and abandoned it 100m in because it's too rocky and narrow. But strollers don't belong on hiking trails like that anyways. The falls are not bad. It's a little small but the views are pretty."
Mike M
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bertha Falls is accessible via a trail starting near the Waterton campground. Lower Bertha Falls is about 3 km one-way from the townsite, while Upper Bertha Falls and Bertha Lake are further along the trail.
Parking is available near the Waterton campground, which serves as a common starting point for the Bertha Falls trail. Arrive early, as it can get busy.
Lower Bertha Falls is very close to the road and requires minimal walking, making it accessible without a significant hike.
Bertha Falls is located in Waterton Lakes National Park in Alberta, Canada, which borders Glacier National Park in the US. They share similar stunning mountain scenery.
The most common way to reach Waterton Lakes National Park is by car. The nearest major airports are in Calgary (YYC) and Kalispell, Montana (FCA).
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a Parks Canada Discovery Pass is required to enter Waterton Lakes National Park. You can purchase passes online or at park gates.
Bertha Falls is accessible year-round, but the trail is best enjoyed during daylight hours, especially from June to September when weather is most favorable.
There is no separate fee for the Bertha Falls trail; your Waterton Lakes National Park pass covers entry to the park and its trails.
It is not recommended to use a stroller on the Bertha Falls trail, especially the path to Upper Bertha Falls, as it is rocky and narrow.
Yes, guided hiking tours are available in Waterton Lakes National Park, including options that may visit Bertha Falls or nearby areas.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike to Lower Bertha Falls is about 3 km (1.9 miles) roundtrip. Continuing to Upper Bertha Falls and Bertha Lake adds another 4 km (2.5 miles) roundtrip, making the full hike approximately 7 km (4.4 miles) roundtrip.
The hike to Bertha Lake involves approximately 2,000 feet (610 meters) of elevation gain, with 21 switchbacks leading up to the lake.
Restroom facilities are typically available at the trailhead near the Waterton campground. It's advisable to check with park information for specific locations.
You might encounter deer, various bird species, and potentially bears. Always maintain a safe distance and be bear aware.
Much of the trail has limited shade due to the impact of the 2017 forest fire, so be prepared for sun exposure. New growth is emerging along the path.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Lower Bertha Falls offers easy photo opportunities. For more dramatic shots, hike to Upper Bertha Falls and Bertha Lake, especially during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the falls and the expansive mountain scenery. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. Consider a tripod for long exposures.
Early morning or late afternoon provides the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a more atmospheric scene.
Many visitors enjoy capturing the cascading water of the falls, the serene Bertha Lake, and the panoramic views of Waterton Lake along the trail.
Drone usage is restricted in Canadian National Parks. Check Parks Canada regulations for specific rules regarding drone operation in Waterton Lakes National Park.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
For families aiming for Upper Bertha Falls, be aware that the trail becomes more challenging with elevation gain and rocky terrain, which might be difficult for toddlers.
👟 Budget-Conscious Travelers
Packing your own food and water is highly recommended to save money on dining within the park. The trails offer beautiful scenery and a rewarding experience without needing to spend extra on guided tours or expensive activities.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 The surrounding Waterton landscape, with its mountains and lake views, provides stunning backdrops. Visiting during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon will yield the best light for capturing the falls and scenery.
Consider bringing a wide-angle lens for expansive shots and a tripod for capturing the movement of the water. Remember to also be mindful of wildlife for potential photography subjects, always maintaining a safe distance. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Bertha Falls Trail Experience
Visitors often note the trail's exposure to the sun due to the impact of the 2017 forest fire, meaning shade is scarce. However, the landscape is recovering, with new growth and wildflowers appearing along the path. The views of Waterton Lake and the surrounding mountains are a significant draw throughout the hike.
For those seeking a less strenuous experience, Lower Bertha Falls is a great option, often described as a reward without the sweat.
For the more adventurous, continuing to Bertha Lake offers a more immersive mountain experience. It's important to be prepared for the hike, wear appropriate footwear, and carry essentials like water and bear spray. Exploring Bertha Bay and Beyond
This area is perfect for those looking for a quieter experience away from the main trail crowds. Continuing further up the trail leads to Bertha Lake, a picturesque alpine lake that serves as the ultimate destination for many hikers. The journey to the lake is more demanding but rewards hikers with stunning mountain vistas and the serene beauty of the lake itself.
+1 Some visitors have even discovered secluded spots like Bertha Bay, finding complete solitude and pristine nature. These extensions of the trail cater to different levels of hikers and offer varied experiences within the same trail system. Whether you're looking for a short, accessible waterfall or a challenging alpine lake hike, the Bertha Falls area provides diverse natural beauty.
Wildlife and Safety in Waterton
Besides bears, you might also see deer, elk, and various bird species. Always maintain a safe distance from all wildlife and never feed them. Following park guidelines and staying aware of your surroundings are key to a safe and enjoyable experience.
The park's recovery from the 2017 fire is also a notable aspect of the landscape. While shade is limited on some trails, the emergence of new growth and wildflowers adds to the natural beauty. Understanding these environmental factors enhances the appreciation of the area's resilience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit